BSEH SS Dance Kathak study plan

Trace the origin of Kathak from ancient ritual and narrative traditions to its medieval court patronage, listing at least five key historical milestones with approximate dates.

Define 20 core technical terms (tatkar, tukra, toda, paran, gat, chakkar, etc.) and write one example of how each is used in practice.

Identify three major turning points in Kathak's evolution (e.g., Mughal influence, Lucknow court, revival period) and explain their impact on the dance form.

Create a timeline chart linking historical periods to changes in technique and repertoire.

Compare the Lucknow, Jaipur, and Banaras gharanas in terms of stylistic emphasis, repertoire, and notable exponents.

List at least five distinguishing features of each gharana, such as posture, footwork patterns, and typical compositions.

Watch video examples (if available) or read descriptions to identify gharana-specific elements in performance.

Explain how the gharana system shaped the transmission of Kathak technique and repertoire.

Define laya (tempo) and tala (rhythmic cycle) and explain their interdependence in Kathak.

Memorize the theka (basic rhythmic pattern) of teental, jhaptal, dadra, and rupak, and recite them with hand claps and waves.

Analyze the structure of a tukra and a toda in teental, identifying how they align with the matra (beat) and vibhag (division).

Practice counting cycles of teental (16 beats) and jhaptal (10 beats) while maintaining a steady laya.

Distinguish between nritta (pure dance), nritya (expressive dance), and natya (drama) with examples from Kathak repertoire.

Explain the concept of abhinaya (expression) and its four types (angika, vachika, aharya, sattvika) with Kathak-specific illustrations.

Identify the nine rasas (navarasa) and describe how each can be evoked through Kathak movement and facial expression.

Analyze a short gat bhao piece to identify elements of nritta, nritya, and abhinaya.

List the major repertoire forms (thumri, dadra, ghazal, bhajan, padam, gat bhao) and describe their thematic and rhythmic characteristics.

Explain the role of accompaniment (tabla, pakhavaj, harmonium, sarangi) in a Kathak performance and how each supports the dancer.

Describe traditional Kathak costume and makeup, including regional variations and their significance.

Outline stage presentation etiquette, including entry, exit, and audience interaction.

Profile at least five notable Kathak exponents (e.g., Birju Maharaj, Kumudini Lakhia, Sitara Devi) and summarize their contributions.

Demonstrate correct posture and basic tatkar (footwork) in teental at a slow and medium laya.

Practice a simple chakkar (spin) sequence, focusing on spotting and balance.

Improvise a short tukra within teental, showing awareness of rhythmic structure.

Review historical evolution and link it to changes in rhythmic structures and abhinaya practices.

Practice identifying talas from audio examples and writing their theka.

Analyze a traditional abhinaya piece (e.g., pada) to identify rasa and bhava.

Consolidate notes on laya and tala, creating a quick-reference sheet.

Synthesize knowledge from all domains by creating a concept map linking gharanas, repertoire, and exponents.

Perform a 5-minute solo segment integrating nritta, nritya, and abhinaya, with attention to costume and stage presence.

Take a timed mock exam covering all domains, focusing on weak areas identified in previous weeks.

Review and revise all deliverables to ensure completeness and accuracy.